The Australian Racing Board today released the tenth edition of the Australian Racing Fact Book, its annual reference guide to the Australian thoroughbred racing industry.

“There is a consistently high level of demand for records relating to the health and performance of the industry. Since first being published in 1999, and with this the 10th edition, our objective for the Fact Book has been to provide the best way to reference key racing industry data” Australian Racing Board Chairman, Bob Pearson, said today.

“In providing a statistical and pictorial account of the past racing season the Fact Book gives us the chance to look back on the many great achievements both on and off the racetrack, while the inclusion this year of greater trend analysis will assist decision makers to shape the future direction of the industry”.

The 2007/08 edition assembles a range of useful facts and figures as a handy guide to any person seeking information on major aspects of the industry, and highlights the impact of Equine Influenza.

Racing – A total of 2,302 race meetings were conducted in Australia during the 2007/2008 season, some 389 less than the previous season. This resulted in 17,211 races being run during the season, down by 2,334 on last season.

Betting – Wagering turnover on thoroughbred racing during 2007/08 decreased by 1.6% on the previous year to $12.64 billion. New South Wales remained Australia's leading wagering jurisdiction accounting for 27.7% of total thoroughbred wagering turnover.

Prizemoney – Total prizemoney during 2007/08 amounted to $355 million, whilst the total returns to owners were over $430 million.

Breeding – There were 29,075 mares returned, resulting in 17,818 live foals (61.3%)

Sales – 4,903 yearlings went under the hammer for a gross of $372,003,961. The highest selling yearling at an Australian public auction for this season was a Redoute’s Choice - Salameh colt sold at the William Inglis & Son Easter yearling sale for $2.7 million.

Ownership – Sole ownership still remains the most popular form of ownership with over 5,291 horses registered this year with one owner.